Death Notices

GATES, Joyce Margaret (nee Smith) – quietly at her home on Wednesday, February 5th, 2020 in her 98th year.  Beloved wife of the late Clair Gates (1998).  Lovingly remembered by Clair’s daughter Joan Avram (Lee) of Belle River.  Dear sister of Laurene Thompson of Windsor, Norman Smith (Sharon) of Mississauga, Bill Smith of Woodstock and Michael Smith (Lynn) of Arizona and Kelowna, BC.  Joyce will be sadly missed by nieces, nephews & extended family.  Predeceased by her parents Charles & Viola Smith (formerly of Mt. Elgin), and by siblings Madeline Waite, Jean Smith, Helen Mennill and Maxwell Smith.  Joyce was an elementary school teacher at the Delhi Public School for many years; active in the Girl Guides from her childhood to adult life, and was the Commissioner of the Otter Creek Region Girls Guides for many years.  Joyce was a historian; she wrote, completed and published the history of the Smith family.  Joyce was an antique collector and a very accomplished artist.  She was a successful real estate investor and business lady;  Joyce donated to many local charities including our local hospital.  She was a member of the University Women’s Club, the Lynnwood Arts Centre, the Norfolk Historical Society and the Norfolk Art League.  She will be sadly missed by all who knew her.  Friends are invited to share their memories of Joyce with her family at the JASON SMITH FUNERAL CHAPEL, 689 Norfolk St. North Simcoe for visitation on Tuesday, February 11th, 2020 from 11:00 – 1:00 p.m.  A funeral service will be held in the chapel following visitation at 1:00 p.m. with Pastor Ron Mullin officiating.  Spring interment of ashes:  Harris St. Cemetery, Mt. Elgin.  The family wish to thank Tracy Segee and her team of caregivers for their wonderful care and compassion in caring for Joyce.  Those wishing to donate in memory of Joyce are asked to consider the Norfolk General Hospital Foundation or the Alzheimer’s Society of Haldimand Norfolk.  Personal online condolences at www.smithfuneralchapel.com  (519) 426-0199